Movie Tourism: A Guide to Visiting Iconic Movie Locations

Forbes recently published a fascinating article delving deep into the concept of "movie tourism." What exactly does this term mean? Visiting iconic places based on films or that served as the setting for one. According to Budget Travel, nearly 80% of travelers are interested in booking a pop culture-based trip in the near future.. That's a lot of people, considering that almost 1 billion (yes, that's right) people travel yearly!

Unfortunately, it's often tricky to pick a great destination: after all, film tastes vary so wildly! But never fear! Our dedicated team at The Parking Spot compiled the in-depth research you need! We found destinations from recent hit movies, as well as stone-cold classics. No matter what kind of flicks you like, this article will help you plan a fun vacation destination based on your favorite film fandoms.

Come with us to learn more about booking a truly outstanding movie vacation. Get the inside scoop on each destination and logistics suggestions, and decide which trip makes sense. Anyone planning a fantastic film vacation (whether with their partner, solo, or with kids) will love these powerful tips!

Domestic Movie Locations

Though some of the biggest films of all time were shot abroad, many classics were created right in the US of A! As a result, you shouldn’t have difficulty booking a solo trip or a getaway with friends and family to some iconic movie locations. Let’s dive deep into a few of the most popular movie trip destinations available today: 

1. Rocky Steps & Philadelphia Museum of Art – Philadelphia, PA

Why It’s Famous: The original film's legendary scene of Rocky running up the stairs.

What You’ll See: While at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you’ll see the still iconic Rocky steps, get the chance to run up them, and can even hang out with the Rocky statue permanently on display. Don’t forget to stop by the museum; it’s one of the best art museums in the country.

Best Time to Visit: Philly’s weather is perfect from spring through the fall, with temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees most of the season. Fall is an enjoyable time of year for this trip: wear your Rocky sweatsuit and jog up the steps in style to recreate iconic movie scenes for your scrapbook.

Logistics: Thankfully, the museum and the Rocky steps are open daily, beyond holidays. As a result, it shouldn’t be too hard for you and your kids to visit. Run up the steps together for free, or pay the museum’s entry fee to check out its gorgeous art. 

Nearby Attractions: While at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you can easily swing by the Liberty Bell and Reading Terminal Market and experience these local favorites. There’s something so special about seeing the Liberty Bell in person that people never forget.

Nearest Airport: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Demographic Fit: Anybody who loves classic sports films (Rocky in particular) will enjoy this vacation! However, Philly is also an excellent spot for families and solo adventurers.

2. Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, CO

Famous For: Inspiring “The Shining” by Stephen King.

What You’ll See: Visit the Stanley Hotel in Colorado; there’s nothing quite like it! The inspiration for Stephen King’s iconic novel “The Shining,” the Stanley Hotel offers amazing architecture, ghost tours (don’t get spooked), and the Stephen King suite for fans of this legendary author’s work.

Best Time to Visit: Avoid the winter; the snow is too insane during that season. Instead, hit up the Stanley Hotel in the fall for a spooky and unnerving atmosphere. Or, if you’d rather not be scared to death, come here in the summer: it’s truly beautiful with high temperatures!

Logistics: Anyone can swing into the Stanley Hotel for a day trip, but overnight stays require advanced booking. We’re talking months, if not a year, in advance; after all, “The Shining” is one of the best horror movies ever filmed!

Nearby Attractions: Stanley Hotel visitors often swing by Rocky Mountain National Park (especially in the summer) for a gorgeous outdoor adventure. To extend your trip, you can also hit up Estes Park Massage, Aiden Sinclari’s Underground Show, and various 4x4 tours.

Nearest Airport: Denver International Airport (DEN)

Demographic Fit: If you’ve had your fill of Denver (which seems hard to believe) and love horror movies, check out the Stanley Hotel! Probably best to leave the kids at home for this one, especially if you plan on doing any ghost hunting.

3. Kualoa Ranch – Oahu, Hawaii

Famous For: Jurassic Park, Jumanji, Lost.

What You'll See: Kualoa Ranch might not have the immediate name recognition you get with the Rocky Steps or Platform 9 3/4, but millions of movie fans know it as the shooting location for several hit movies and shows: “Jurassic Park,” “Jumanji,” and “Lost.” These days, you’ll not only enjoy some movie set tours but also take ATV adventures and go on some jungle expeditions!

Best Time to Visit: Known for its gorgeous warm weather, Hawaii is an excellent place to visit year-round. To get the best experience, we suggest a winter trip (such as January or February). Avoid April to October: rain falls heavily during these months.

Logistics: You’ll need to book in advance here, at least for a few months. We also suggest packing accordingly (warm-weather gear and some swimsuits are all you’ll need) to get the most out of this experience. Bring strong hiking boots to avoid blisters!

Nearby Attractions: There’s so much to do near Kualoa Ranch that your head will spin. Check out the Polynesian Cultural Center to learn more about the area’s history, lounge on some Oahu beaches, or go scuba diving to experience the best Hawaii has to offer. 

Nearest Airport: Honolulu International Airport (HNL)

Demographic Fit: Kids love dinosaurs, making this a fan trip destination for families! However, adventurous couples who love a little thrill might find this a perfect weekend getaway. It goes without saying that “Jurassic Park” fans should come here ASAP.

4. Field of Dreams Movie Site – Dyersville, IA

Famous For: The Field of Dreams baseball field.

What You'll See: “Field of Dreams” is one of the most inspirational movies of all time, and its filming site brings thousands of visitors to sleepy Dyersville every year! You’ll get the chance to tour the house (including renting it for events), hang out in the field itself, and even watch some off-season MLB games. It turns out the movie was right: they built it, and people keep on coming.

Best Time to Visit: Iowa’s winters are no joke, so please try booking in the late spring through the early fall! Sure, that’s when most other people will visit the area, but we promise it’ll reduce your stress and make your trip far more enjoyable. 

Logistics: This destination is open from sunrise to sunset all year round, even in the depths of winter. Naturally, that impacts your trip because the sun sets early in Iowa when it’s cold. Don’t forget to check their event schedule: there’s plenty to do year-round, even around Thanksgiving. 

Nearby Attractions: Dyersville might not seem like a thrill-a-minute destination, but it’s not too far from the National Farm Toy Museum (surprisingly enjoyable!) and many cute local diners. Beyond that, it’s a beautiful place to picnic with the kids!

Nearest Airport: Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ)

Demographic Fit: The Fields of Dreams filming site is a family-friendly destination with lots for kids and adults to enjoy. Baseball fans, in particular, need to check it out because so much of the site is dedicated to it, especially older players (nostalgia seekers, sign up!).

5. Forks, Washington – Twilight Town

Famous For: The town in which Twilight is set.

What You’ll See: Before “Twilight,” Forks wasn’t precisely on too many people’s maps. However, the massive popularity of the book and film series has made Forks one of the truly iconic movie locations in modern history. While here, check out the Forks High School sign, the Cullen House (Miller Tree Inn), and the Forks Chamber of Commerce to get the whole “Twilight” vibe. 

Best Time to Visit: Washington’s weather is pretty mild all year, but it’s best for “Twilight” fanatics to come during the summer or late September. After all, that’s when they hold the annual “Forever Twilight” festival. Whether you’re team Edward or Jacob, you gotta check it out.

Logistics: If you want a relatively low-cost movie vacation, Forks is a great choice! It’s very walkable (cutting back on gas expenses), and most of the “Twilight” sites are free to visit. Make sure to book a month or two in advance to avoid congestion. However, other Washington Twilight locations, such as Port Angeles and La Push Beach, will require a bit of a drive. 

Nearby Attractions: After checking out Forks, take a trip to Olympic National Park, Rialto Beach, or the Hoh Rainforest to experience the best outdoor adventures that Washington has to offer! It'll require some driving, so make sure to book a rental car.

Nearest Airport: Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) (around a four-hour drive)

Demographic Fit: Any “Twilight” fan who wants to see where their favorite films were made should check out Forks. While it’s highly popular with teens, adults who grew up with the books and films may find this the perfect location for a nostalgia-filled friends trip!

6. Salem, MA – Hocus Pocus Filming Sites

Famous For: Hocus Pocus locations, including Allison’s house and Old Town Hall.

What You’ll See: “Hocus Pocus” has grown in popularity over the last 20 years and is now considered a classic! As far as iconic movie locations go, Salem, Massachusetts, is no slouch! Check out Ropes Mansion, the Dennisons' house, Pioneer Village, and Salem Common to see the ins and outs of this fun movie and its unique feel.

Best Time to Visit: Salem is a great fall travel destination because its weather is mild and enjoyable. Just as importantly, “Hocus Pocus” fans will have way more fun if they visit in October, as there are many Halloween events throughout the city.

Logistics: Many places in Salem associated with “Hocus Pocus” are public, but not all are. The Ropes Mansion is open from May to October for self-guided tours, but admission is required. The Dennisons’ House, in particular, is a private residence, though fans are welcome to respectfully take pictures of the exterior from the street.

Nearby Attractions: After immersing yourself in “Hocus Pocus” fun, check out the Salem Witch Museum and the area’s many haunted tours. Few towns in America have quite the “scary” reputation as Salem, so dig into it!

Nearest Airport: Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)

Demographic Fit: Nostalgic 90s movie lovers will absolutely love checking out Salem to get their “Hocus Pocus” fix! It’s also great for families and Halloween fans: while there’s some spookiness, it’s very family-friendly and not at all overwhelming.

International Movie Locations

While plenty of amazing domestic iconic movie locations exist, many iconic film sites are located internationally. Whether traveling by train in Europe or planning a family vacation to New Zealand to check out iconic movie locations, The Parking Spot has you covered!

7. Platform 9 ¾ – King’s Cross Station, London, UK

Famous For: Harry Potter train station departure to Hogwarts.

What You’ll See: Harry Potter fans can swing by Platform 9 3/4 to get a photo op at King’s Cross and visit the Harry Potter shop to buy some fun goodies. 

Best Time to Visit: Platform 9 3/4 is open year-round. However, fans may find the fall weather in London particularly immersive.

Logistics: Platform 9 3/4 gets surprisingly busy (after all, it’s free to visit), so arrive early to avoid crowds. 

Nearby Attractions: After checking out Platform 9 3/4, swing by the British Library or the Camden Market, or head off to other areas of London to experience the city.

Nearest Airport: London Heathrow Airport (LHR)

Demographic Fit: Potterheads, families, and average London tourists will love visiting Platform 9 3/4!

8. Alnwick Castle – Northumberland, England

Famous For: Hogwarts exterior in Harry Potter films.

What You’ll See: Ready to relive life in Hogwarts? Come to Northumberland and Alnwick Castle to check out the castle grounds, get some broomstick training, and go on historical tours.

Best Time to Visit: England is best visited from late spring through early fall, as traveling in Europe in the winter can get chilly. Alnwick Castle is best as an outdoor attraction.

Logistics: Book ahead (tickets, in particular, as they go quickly) and budget the entrance fee into everything. Pay attention, too, to seasonal activities.

Nearby Attractions: While not huge, there’s lots to do in Northumberland, including checking out the Northumberland Coast or buying rare Potter tomes at Barter Books.

Nearest Airport: Newcastle International Airport (NCL)

Demographic Fit: Alnwick Castle is a national treasure, and history buffs will love it. Fantasy fans, families, and Potterheads will also love it!

9. Lord of the Rings Tour – New Zealand

Famous For: Hobbiton, Mount Doom, Rivendell sets.

What You’ll See: New Zealand will always be the home of The Lord of the Rings thanks to the movies! On the Lord of the Rings tour, check out Hobbiton in Matamata, Tongariro National Park, and Wellington’s Weta Workshop.

Best Time to Visit: Come between November and April to experience a beautiful New Zealand summer on your Lord of the Rings trip!

Logistics: You’ll need to book ahead for guided tours, like the Hobbiton tour.

Nearby Attractions: You can easily find the Rotorua hot springs, Waitomo Caves, which are not too far from the Lord of the Rings tour, and other beautiful outdoor adventures.

Nearest Airport: Auckland International Airport (AKL)

Demographic Fit: New Zealand is perfect for adventure travelers (there are many hills and valleys to explore) and Lord of the Rings fans who want to relive the adventure.

10. Mirabell Gardens – Salzburg, Austria

Famous For: “Do-Re-Mi” scene in The Sound of Music.

What You’ll See: Few musicals are as beloved as “The Sound of Music,” and visiting Mirabell Gardens lets you recreate this scene, as well as enjoy Pegasus Fountain, Grand Fountain, and Dwarf Garden.

Best Time to Visit: Austria (and most of Europe) is best visited in late spring to summer, especially when frolicking at iconic movie locations like Mirabell Gardens.

Logistics: Anybody can visit Mirabell Gardens for free, though there are paid guided tours available that make visiting iconic movie locations like this more exciting.

Nearby Attractions: Classical music fans will love Salzburg (it’s Mozart’s birthplace) and other destinations, such as the gorgeous Salzburg Cathedral.

Nearest Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Demographic Fit: Mirabell Gardens will appeal to families who love “The Sound of Music,” general musical fans, or people fascinated by Austria.

11. Leopoldskron Palace – Salzburg, Austria

Famous For: Exterior shots of the von Trapp villa in The Sound of Music.

What You’ll See: After visiting Mirabell Gardens, swing by Leopoldskron Palace to see even more of this musical’s iconic movie locations! You’ll see the palace grounds, a lakeside view, and the Venetian Room.

Best Time to Visit: To get the best experience, book your visit during the spring through fall. You’ll be outdoors a lot here.

Logistics: There’s a private hotel in the palace where you can stay, but it’s usually quite busy and costly. Book in advance to ensure you get a spot (and save money).

Nearby Attractions: Hellbrunn Palace, Salzburg Museum.

Nearest Airport: Salzburg Airport (SZG)

Demographic Fit: This trip is perfect for anyone who wants to stay fit while on vacation (including couples and film buffs), as well as luxury travelers (i.e., those who want to stay somewhere really nice).

12. The Shining Hotel (Timberline Lodge) – Mt. Hood, OR

Famous For: Exterior shots of the Overlook Hotel in The Shining.

What You’ll See: If you’ve already visited The Stanley Hotel, why not check out the Timberline Lodge, where the exterior shots were filmed? View the Timberline Lodge exterior, enjoy the gorgeous mountain setting, and hang out at the ski area.

Best Time to Visit: Timberline looks rather spooky in the fall (lots of visitors show up then, so be prepared for that), while winter is excellent if you plan on skiing – just avoid the busiest winter travel days to stay safe. 

Logistics: You can stay overnight here, but book well ahead (up to a year) in advance, as this is a popular tourist spot. Winter driving is often treacherous, so consider renting a truck with a plow.

Nearby Attractions: The beautiful Mount Hood scenic byways feature unbelievable mountain views, while Trillium Lake is flawless in spring, summer, fall, and winter.

Nearest Airport: Portland International Airport (PDX)

Demographic Fit: Whether you’re a horror fan, a couple that wants a romantic vacation, or someone who loves getting outside, the Timberline Lodge is a great vacation destination! 

Plan Your Trip With The Help of The Parking Spot!

Are you ready to run up the Rocky steps, spend a night at the Stanley Hotel, visit Alnwick Castle, and relive your Lord of the Rings film fantasies in these iconic movie locations? Whether you're obsessed with Mirabell Gardens, want to see Platform 9 3/4, or ride on Kualoa Ranch, you can book a fantastic vacation destination that the whole family will love!

After all, study after study highlights just how heavily movies impact our society on every level. Yes, your kids will start talking and dressing like their favorite characters. Still, even adults change based on films, whether you're giving your children a truly memorable and unique experience or simply reliving your fantasies, booking a movie-based trip is rewarding. 

You can also start your trip right by joining The Spot Club, downloading our coupons, and reserving a comfortable place for your car at one of our many The Parking Spot locations. We offer many amenities for our customers, including covered parking, free shuttle service, pet-friendly support, and discounts for long-term stays; plan your dream movie vacation today!